Chevrolet Announces Corvette Performance Data Recorder

The 2015 Stingray will be the first vehicle in the industry to come equipped with an all-new Performance Data Recorder (PDR) which is a fully-integrated video, audio, and motorsport-inspired system allowing users to record high-definition video complete with telemetry overlays of their driving experiences both on and off the track. Video can be reviewed on the 8-inch touchscreen while parked or downloaded to a computer for sharing.

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The incredible PDR system was created with Cosworth, the same British motorsports-engineering company which supplies the Corvette Racing team’s data acquisition and telemetry electronics system.

Data can be uploaded to Cosworth Toolbox telemetry software as a tool to improve driving techniques and lap times, similar to what Corvette Racing uses. The application uses a Bing-enabled satellite map of the track, and features an easy-to-use interface to compare selected laps in detail for any requested point on the drive. Corner traces, vehicle speed, and cornering force readings help drivers improve their driving consistency and lap times.

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“The Performance Data Recorder combines the ability to record and share drive videos with the power of a professional-level motorsports telemetry system,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “Drivers can easily record and share their experiences driving down the Tail of the Dragon or lapping Road Atlanta.”

The system is made up of three components which will be seamlessly integrated into the Stingray’s cockpit. The 720p HD camera is mounted within the windshield header trim, recording driver’s point-of-view, while audio will be recorded via microphone inside the cabin. A self-contained telemetry recorder uses a GPS receiver which operates at 5 Hz (a whopping five times faster than the in-dash navigation) for precise positioning and corner traces. The Stingray’s Controller Area Network (CAN) is used to access vehicle information including engine speed, transmission-gear selection, braking force, and steering wheel angle. An SD-card slot in the glove box enables recording and transferring video and vehicle data. An 8GB card can record about 200 minutes worth of footage, while a 32GB card can store about 800 minutes, so card choice will play a large role in usage.

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In real-time the system records video through four data overlay options: Track Mode, which shows the maximum level of data on the screen, such as speed, RPM, g-force, a location-based map, lap time, and more; Sport Mode, which shows less details on the overlay, but includes key data including speed and g-force; Touring Mode with no data overlay, and only recording and displaying of video and audio of the drive; and Performance Mode which records performance metrics, such as 0 to 60 mph acceleration, quarter-mile speed and elapsed time, and 0-100-0 mph runs.

The PDR system will be made available at the start of 2015 Corvette production, slated to begin in the third quarter of 2014, and pricing will be announced closer to launch.